Summer footwear is getting a glamorous upgrade this season. Basic flip-flops are taking a backseat as embellished sandals become the must-have accessory for warm weather style.
These luxurious options combine comfort with eye-catching details like shells, studs, beads, and more – perfect for elevating everyday outfits or complementing special occasion looks.
1. Free People Waverly Shell Sandals
Seaside charm meets bohemian style with these delightful shell-adorned beauties. Tiny shells cascade across the straps, creating a natural, beachy vibe that pairs perfectly with flowy dresses or casual shorts.
The neutral leather base ensures versatility while the unique shell placement makes each pair slightly different. Walking along the boardwalk or attending a casual beach wedding? These sandals will have you covered.
The cushioned footbed provides unexpected comfort for all-day wear, proving that style doesn’t have to sacrifice functionality.
2. Khaite Boden Studded Slingback Sandal
Luxury meets edge in these sophisticated slingbacks from high-end label Khaite. Silver studs punctuate the smooth leather straps, creating a modern contrast that elevates any outfit from basic to bold.
Fashion insiders love how these sandals transition seamlessly from day to night. The modest heel height offers just enough lift without sacrificing walkability – crucial for summer adventures.
Black leather provides timeless appeal while the adjustable slingback ensures a secure fit for various foot shapes. Worth the investment for their versatility and head-turning style.
3. Tory Burch Patos Sandal (black)
Iconic designer appeal meets everyday wearability in these sleek black sandals. The signature Tory Burch medallion takes center stage, transforming what could be basic black sandals into an instantly recognizable fashion statement.
Buttery soft leather molds to your feet from first wear, sparing you the dreaded break-in period. The minimalist silhouette works effortlessly with everything from cropped jeans to flowing maxi dresses.
Celebrity fans include Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, who appreciate the blend of comfort and understated luxury. These sandals prove that sometimes simple details make the biggest impact.
4. Amanu Malawi Corded Leather Sandals
Handcrafted excellence defines these artisanal beauties from sustainable brand Amanu. Woven cord detailing wraps around premium leather straps, creating texture and visual interest rarely found in mass-produced footwear.
The earthy color palette connects wearers to nature while supporting ethical production practices. Each sandal undergoes meticulous crafting by skilled artisans who bring traditional techniques to modern design.
Surprisingly lightweight despite their substantial appearance, these sandals mold to your feet over time. The result? A custom-feeling fit that gets better with each wearing.
5. Zara Flat Sandals With Detail
Budget-friendly fashion doesn’t mean sacrificing style, as these eye-catching Zara sandals beautifully demonstrate. Metallic accents and geometric embellishments create visual interest that belies their affordable price point.
The slim straps offer a barely-there feel while still providing adequate support for city strolls. Fashion editors love pairing these with everything from casual denim to office-appropriate dresses.
Available in multiple colorways, these versatile sandals sell out quickly each season. Their comfortable footbed and on-trend detailing make them the perfect gateway into the embellished sandal trend without major investment.
6. Dolce Vita Faun Ankle Strap Sandal
Romantic femininity defines these whimsical ankle-strap treasures from Dolce Vita. Delicate beading creates a jewelry-like effect across the foot, catching sunlight with every step and drawing admiring glances.
The ankle strap provides security without sacrificing the airy, elegant silhouette. Perfect for summer weddings or special occasions, these sandals elevate simple dresses into event-worthy ensembles.
Despite their decorative appearance, clever cushioning in the footbed ensures you can dance the night away. The neutral base color ensures these statement-makers remain surprisingly versatile throughout summer.
7. H&M Studded Flip-Flops
Affordable luxury reaches new heights with these reimagined flip-flops from H&M. Metal studs transform the casual silhouette into something far more sophisticated than your average beach shoes. The familiar flip-flop shape retains all the comfort we love while the edgy embellishments add unexpected polish.
College students especially love these for pool parties and summer festivals where style matters but practicality remains essential.
Water-resistant materials mean these can transition from poolside to street without missing a beat. At this price point, grabbing multiple colors becomes an easy decision for summer wardrobe building.
8. Jeffrey Campbell Cherished Sandals
Maximalist style reaches its peak with these conversation-starting sandals from trend-forward brand Jeffrey Campbell. Oversized pearls and crystal embellishments create a jewelry-store-meets-footwear effect that’s impossible to ignore.
Fashion risk-takers gravitate toward these statement pieces for their ability to transform even the simplest outfit. The chunky silhouette provides surprising stability despite the decorative elements.
Celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe recommends these for fashion-forward brides seeking something memorable for rehearsal dinners or honeymoon adventures. The neutral base ensures the embellishments remain the focal point without overwhelming your overall look.
9. Tory Burch Patos Sandal (brown)
Warm cognac leather creates a vintage-inspired foundation for these timeless beauties from Tory Burch. The rich brown hue develops a gorgeous patina over time, making these sandals more beautiful with each wearing.
The iconic gold medallion provides just enough flash without overwhelming the natural leather. Travel enthusiasts appreciate how these pair with virtually everything in a vacation wardrobe, from casual shorts to breezy dresses.
Memory foam footbeds hidden beneath the leather insole deliver unexpected comfort for all-day sightseeing. Consider these an investment piece that will remain stylish for years to come.
10. Frankie4 Deon Buckle Sandal
Podiatrist-designed comfort meets fashionable detailing in these game-changing sandals from Frankie4. The statement buckle transforms orthopedic-friendly footwear into something genuinely stylish – a revolution for those with foot pain.
Hidden support features include arch support, cushioned heel cups, and metatarsal domes that distribute pressure evenly. Women with plantar fasciitis particularly praise these for allowing pain-free summer style.
The adjustable straps accommodate various foot widths and instep heights. Fashion doesn’t have to hurt – these sandals prove you can have both style and serious comfort in one beautiful package.
11. Tory Burch Patos Slingback
Summer workwear gets a sophisticated upgrade with these polished slingbacks from Tory Burch. The closed toe provides office-appropriate coverage while the open back delivers essential summer breathability.
Silver hardware adds just enough embellishment to elevate these beyond basic work flats. Working professionals appreciate how these transition seamlessly from office to evening events without requiring a footwear change.
The elastic slingback ensures these stay securely on your feet during commutes. Consider these the perfect solution for maintaining professional style during hot weather without sacrificing comfort or polish.
12. Zara Beaded Leather Sandals
Global inspiration meets accessible fashion in these beautifully crafted Zara sandals. Colorful beadwork creates patterns reminiscent of traditional artisanal techniques from around the world. The leather base provides durability while the vibrant beading adds personality and visual interest.
Travel influencers frequently feature these in their summer content for their ability to elevate simple vacation outfits.
Despite the intricate appearance, these remain surprisingly affordable compared to similar styles from luxury brands. The flat silhouette ensures all-day wearability while still delivering that coveted “where did you get those?” reaction.
13. Steve Madden Sandria Studded Slingback Sandal
Rock-and-roll attitude meets summer practicality in these edgy studded slingbacks from Steve Madden. Silver studs create a hardware-inspired look that adds character to simple summer outfits. The modest block heel provides height without sacrificing stability on uneven sidewalks or grassy venues.
Festival-goers particularly love these for outdoor concerts where style matters but comfort remains essential.
Available at an accessible price point, these deliver designer looks without the luxury markup. The adjustable strap accommodates various ankle sizes while ensuring these stay firmly in place during active summer days.
14. Free People Gia Grommet Thong Sandals
Bohemian spirit meets hardware detailing in these laid-back yet distinctive thong sandals. Metal grommets create unexpected edge on the leather straps, transforming the familiar flip-flop silhouette into something far more fashion-forward.
Music festival attendees gravitate toward these for their combination of practicality and distinctive style. The leather gradually molds to your foot shape, creating a custom-feeling fit that improves with each wearing.
Despite their substantial appearance, these remain lightweight enough for all-day wear. The neutral leather ensures these pair effortlessly with the flowy dresses and distressed denim typical of boho summer style.
15. Steve Madden Odyssey Mocha
Coffee-colored elegance defines these versatile platform sandals from Steve Madden. The rich mocha shade provides a sophisticated alternative to basic black or brown while maintaining exceptional versatility.
The platform design delivers height without the discomfort of a traditional heel. Fashion bloggers frequently feature these as a summer wardrobe essential for their ability to elongate the leg while remaining comfortable enough for extended wear.
Braided jute detailing adds textural interest and summery appeal to the substantial silhouette. These sandals effortlessly bridge the gap between casual and dressy, making them perfect for summer date nights or outdoor social events.